3LAB Perfect BB SPF 40: It’s All In The Name

Even though I’m a big time beauty blogger (hee, hee), I’m still on a budget so when I get the opportunity to try a luxury product, I’m all over it! I was recently able to try 3LAB’s Perfect BB Cream SPF 40/PA+++. And…..what’s in a name? The truth! I love the concept of BB creams. They are like a tinted moisturizer on steroids; a foundation, moisturizer, primer, sunscreen and serious skin care all in one. Rather than going into an long explanation of what a BB cream (Blemish or Beauty Balm) is, and where they came from, you can read my post on BB creams here. I also review a few other BB creams in that post.

I have tried several BB creams and never quite found the “perfect” (there’s that word again) one….until now. It is also “perfect” for women over 40–hydrating, pore minimizing, anti-aging! I can’t find much wrong with this product other than they need more shades. There are three shades available which is more than most BB creams.

What I Love About 3LAB Perfect BB SPF40/PA+++

Texture: lighter than a foundation (“perfect” for summer), better coverage than a tinted moisturizer

Sunscreen: Titanium Dioxide (a whopping 12.16%) based and does not contain chemical sunscreens. Also 3+’s is the highest protection available

Finish: semi-matte, gives a flawless, poreless appearance to the skin!

Limited shade availability. I don’t even feel good about calling that a con because so many BB creams only come in one shade!

I’ve tried many BB creams and 3Lab Perfect BB is the absolute BEST out there! Most have more moisturizer in them than skin care and make my combination skin look oily and greasy by mid-day. Some of the sunscreen makes my skin have a whitish cast and gives the BB cream a thick gloppy texture. This is similiar to a light foundation and gives a smooth, flawless, radiant look to the skin. It does not wear off, oxidize or fade–it lasts for a good 12 hours or more without looking cakey. There are three shades available; Light, Medium and Dark. Don’t be scared, each shade works for a variety of skin tones. I apply with my fingers or my beauty blender sponge but it does come with a “roller” applicator. I have no idea where my roller is , (probably with the yellow sweater I lost last summer and the book I’m currently looking high and low for) but many of my blogger friends love it! One applies the 3Lab BB cream with her fingers and then blends with the roller.

3LAB Perfect BB Cream Ummm…sorry for the weird look!

Overall: This BB cream cannot be beat! I wish I could say that for the price. At $95 this is a splurge, but in my opinion one worth it. When I find a foundation I love that makes my skin look flawless, I don’t look elsewhere. Come Fall, I’ll go back to my beloved SENSAI Fluid Finish Lasting Velvet Foundation.

Considering this is the ONLY product I use–no separate primer, moisturizer or sunscreen, this price seems more in line. I will definitely repurchase when I run out. I want in a BB cream is EXACTLY what 3LAB provides–foundation, sunscreen and skin care all in one product.

Prime Beauty Grade: A

Considerations: Not all BB creams all created equal. There is a vast range of prices, skin care benefits and SPF protection. A little research couldn’t hurt. Decide what is most important to you–SPF protection, coverage or skin care ingredients and read my post BB Creams: Review and An Explanation.

That is definitely a keeper, Cindy! Your skin looks flawless. I’m interested in hearing your review of Bobbi Brown’s new BB cream. I bought it and it stung like h*ll ! It looked ok for awhile, but I sweated right through it in no time.

cindy

Mama I haven’t tried the Bobbi one but I have tried a lot and this is the best one ever! I also like the new NARS TM but not as much as 3LAB!